Accra, Ghana – April 27, 2026 – The Centre for Global Affairs and Responsible Governance (CGAR) has issued a strong condemnation of the persistent xenophobic attacks in South Africa, urging the African Union (AU) to intervene immediately. The policy advocacy group warned on April 27, 2026, that the ongoing violence against fellow Africans, including citizens of Ghana, carries severe diplomatic and economic repercussions for the continent.
Betrayal of Pan-Africanism and Agenda 2063
Mathias Bonzo-Ewereko Boateng, Executive Director of CGAR, described the attacks as a profound betrayal of Pan-African solidarity and a direct threat to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aims for continental integration and prosperity. “These attacks are a betrayal of Pan-African solidarity and a direct threat to Agenda 2063,” the statement read. “You cannot champion AfCFTA by day and allow mobs to lynch traders by night. Violence against Africans anywhere is violence against Africa.”
Diplomatic Risks and Bilateral Relations
The Centre highlighted significant diplomatic risks stemming from the violence. It noted that Ghana, like other affected nations, has a responsibility to protect its citizens abroad. Perceived inaction by South African authorities in addressing these attacks could lead to strained bilateral relations between South Africa and other AU member states.
Economic Implications for AfCFTA
Economically, CGAR cautioned that the aspirations of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) are jeopardized by the prevailing climate of fear. The success of AfCFTA hinges on the free movement of goods and people, which is impossible when traders and investors do not feel safe. “Free movement and trade under AfCFTA cannot thrive where safety is not guaranteed,” the statement emphasized.
Undermining African Integration
Beyond economic concerns, the group argued that xenophobic violence fundamentally undermines the broader vision of African integration championed by the AU. The organization stated that the AU’s goals of unity and cooperation are jeopardized when member states fail to ensure the basic human dignity and safety of all Africans within their borders. “The African Union’s aspirations for unity and integration collapse when member states fail to uphold basic human dignity,” it added.
Call for Action and Accountability
CGAR has called for decisive action from South African authorities. The group urged for the immediate arrest and prosecution of all perpetrators involved in xenophobic attacks. Furthermore, they appealed to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to issue a clear and unequivocal policy statement condemning xenophobia and outlining concrete steps to prevent future incidents.
AU Intervention and Sanctions Framework
In its appeal to the African Union, the Centre requested an emergency session to establish a robust monitoring and sanctions framework. Such a framework would aim to hold member states accountable for failing to prevent or address xenophobic violence effectively across the continent.
Historical Solidarity and Reciprocity
The statement also served as a reminder of historical ties, referencing Ghana’s significant support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle. “Ghana stood with South Africa during apartheid. South Africa must now stand with Africa,” the Centre asserted, calling for reciprocal solidarity.
Call for Calm and Unity
Despite the strong condemnation and calls for action, CGAR urged calm among Ghanaians and other affected communities. The organization cautioned against retaliatory actions, emphasizing that unity and constructive engagement are more potent than vengeance. “Our strength is in unity, not vengeance,” Mr. Bonzo-Ewereko Boateng concluded.
Looking Ahead
The coming months will be critical in observing South Africa’s response to these persistent calls for action and the AU’s willingness to implement stricter oversight mechanisms. The effectiveness of these measures will significantly impact the future of intra-African trade, the realization of Agenda 2063, and the overall stability of diplomatic relations across the continent.
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